Suffolk County, Long Island, boasts a variety of family-friendly parks, each offering unique experiences. Here’s an overview of some notable locations:
Heckscher State Park (East Islip): Established in 1929, Heckscher State Park spans over 1,600 acres along the Great South Bay. Originally part of a private estate, it was transformed into a public space to provide recreational opportunities. Today, visitors can enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, and beaches suitable for swimming. The park also offers facilities for sports like soccer and tennis. Contact: (631) 581-2100. Heckscher State Park Website
Sunken Meadow State Park (Kings Park): Opened in 1928, Sunken Meadow State Park covers over 1,200 acres along the Long Island Sound. The park features three miles of beaches, a boardwalk, hiking trails, and picnic areas. It also boasts a 27-hole golf course with scenic views. Contact: (631) 269-4333. Sunken Meadow State Park Website
Wildwood State Park (Wading River): Established in 1925, Wildwood State Park encompasses 600 acres overlooking the Long Island Sound. The park offers camping facilities, a beach, and hiking trails through dense woodlands. It’s a popular destination for families seeking a blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Contact: (631) 929-4314. Wildwood State Park Website
Hither Hills State Park (Montauk): Since its opening in 1924, Hither Hills State Park has provided visitors with ocean beaches, picnic areas, and a campground accommodating tents and trailers. The park’s unique “walking dunes” and diverse wildlife make it a favorite among nature enthusiasts. Contact: (631) 668-2554. Hither Hills State Park Website
Hallock State Park Preserve (Riverhead): Opened to the public in 2005, Hallock State Park Preserve spans over 225 acres along the Long Island Sound. The park offers hiking trails that traverse through woodlands, meadows, and beachfront areas, providing habitats for various bird species. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying serene coastal views. Contact: (631) 315-5475. Hallock State Park Preserve Website
Belmont Lake State Park (North Babylon): Established in 1926, Belmont Lake State Park serves as the headquarters for the Long Island State Park Region. The 463-acre park features a significant lake, offering boating and fishing opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy scenic picnic areas, open fields, and a network of trails suitable for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Contact: (631) 667-5055. Belmont Lake State Park Website
Caleb Smith State Park Preserve (Smithtown): This 543-acre state park preserve is one of the few remaining undeveloped areas on Long Island. Named after Caleb Smith, a judge and prominent figure in the 18th century, the park offers nature trails, a variety of habitats, and opportunities for birdwatching and fly fishing. Contact: (631) 265-1054. Caleb Smith State Park Preserve Website
Connetquot River State Park Preserve (Oakdale): Encompassing over 3,400 acres, Connetquot River State Park Preserve was established to protect the Connetquot River’s headwaters. The park offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and fly fishing for brook, brown, and rainbow trout. It’s also home to the historic Southside Sportsmen’s Club, reflecting the area’s rich heritage. Contact: (631) 581-1005. Connetquot River State Park Preserve Website
Robert Moses State Park (Fire Island): Opened in 1908, Robert Moses State Park is one of the oldest state parks in New York. Located on the western end of Fire Island, the park offers five miles of ocean beaches, picnic areas, and a pitch-and-putt golf course. It’s accessible via the Robert Moses Causeway and is a popular destination for beachgoers. Contact: (631) 669-0449. Robert Moses State Park Website
Indian Island County Park (Riverhead): Situated at the estuarine mouth of the Peconic River, Indian Island County Park spans approximately 275 acres. The park offers camping facilities, picnicking areas, and fishing opportunities. Its diverse habitats include tidal wetlands, oak forests, and open meadows, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Contact: (631) 852-3232. Indian Island County Park Website
Cathedral Pines County Park (Middle Island): This 320-acre park is known for its towering pine trees and offers camping, hiking, and mountain biking trails. The park also hosts various group camping events and is a popular spot for scout troops and family gatherings. Contact: (631) 852-5500. Cathedral Pines County Park Website
Southaven County Park (Brookhaven): Located along the Carmans River, Southaven County Park encompasses over 1,300 acres. The park provides canoeing, camping, and picnic facilities, as well as bridle paths and hiking trails. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, offering ample opportunities for nature observation. Contact: (631) 852-5500. Southaven County Park Website
Blydenburgh County Park (Smithtown): This serene park offers a mix of hiking trails, fishing spots, and historic sites, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visitors can explore the picturesque Stump Pond and enjoy guided tours of the Blydenburgh Farm and New Mill Historic District. Contact: Park Office/Campground (631) 854-3712 / Greenbelt Trails Conference Office (631) 360-0753 Blydenburgh County Park Website
Gardiner County Park (West Bay Shore): A pet-friendly haven, this park features scenic trails that lead to the beautiful Great South Bay. It’s an ideal spot for families with furry friends, offering a peaceful environment for leisurely walks and picnics. Contact: (631) 854-0935 Gardiner County Park Website
West Meadow Beach (Stony Brook): Nestled along the Long Island Sound, this beach provides a calm and family-friendly atmosphere. With walking trails and opportunities to observe marine life, it’s a great spot for relaxation and exploration. West Meadow Beach Website
Cedar Point County Park (East Hampton): Known for its camping facilities and fishing opportunities, this park also boasts stunning views of the historic Cedar Point Lighthouse. It’s a fantastic destination for outdoor adventures and scenic hikes. Contact: (631) 852-7620 Cedar Point County Park Website
Orient Beach State Park (Orient): This park features pristine beaches, picnic areas, and kayaking opportunities. Its unique maritime forest and abundant wildlife make it a natural wonderland for families to explore. Contact: (631) 323-2440 Orient Beach State Park Website
Montauk Point State Park (Montauk): Home to the iconic Montauk Lighthouse, this park offers breathtaking ocean views and scenic trails. It’s a must-visit for history lovers and those seeking a picturesque coastal experience. Contact: (631) 668-3781 Montauk Point State Park Website
Sears Bellows County Park (Hampton Bays): Located within the Long Island Pine Barrens, this park is perfect for freshwater fishing, camping, and hiking. Its extensive trail system attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Contact: (631) 852-8290 Sears Bellows County Park Website
Smith Point County Park (Shirley): Situated on the Fire Island barrier beach, this park is a favorite for its ocean beach, camping facilities, and nature trails. It’s a vibrant spot for summer fun and relaxation. Contact: (631) 852-1340 Smith Point County Park Website
